(EFFINGHAM, IL) – Do you want help in learning how to overcome your tobacco addiction so you can enjoy the benefits of better health, extra money in your pocket and healthier relationships?

HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital is offering the American Cancer Society’s Freshstart® program. This facilitated support program is for adults who are ready to quit smoking. Freshstart addresses stopping smoking as quickly as possible and learning new techniques for ending your physical and psychological need to smoke.

The Freshstart program consists of four sessions. Participants will meet 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the Auditorium – St. Francis Room at St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital on the following Tuesday evenings: January 8, 15, 22 and 29. Preregistration is required. There is a $20 registration fee for the program due prior to the first session. Upon completion of the program, the fee will be refunded. Scholarships are available to participants who cannot afford the registration fee.

A trained facilitator will lead the program in a small-group setting so participants receive personalized attention. Research has proven that the more time a smoker spends in a supportive situation, the more likely he or she is to succeed.

You'll learn about:

Quitting cold turkey

Use of the nicotine patch

Fighting urges to smoke

Addressing the physical symptoms of withdrawal

For more information regarding this program or to register for the program, contact Community Programs, at (217) 347-1529